Villages

We are incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by the most beautiful villages. Countryside walks followed by lunch in the village pub are to be delighted in.

Grab yourself a map (a proper one – made of paper!) and explore; whether by car, on foot or bicycle.

ARDINGTON HOUSE

Ardington House was built in 1720 and has been the home of the Baring family for several generations.

Ardington House

The house was built by the Strong brothers with typical Georgian symmetry; the house is also famous for its Imperial Staircase. Leading from the Hall, the staircase has two matching flights leading into one and is considered by experts to be one of the finest examples in Britain.

The main rooms of the House are adorned with many paintings and furniture from several periods.

CHAMPS CHAPEL, EAST HENDRED

Champs Chapel, built in 1453 for Carthusian monks, contains a selection of East Hendred Heritage Trust’s collection of village artefacts, pictures, documents, books and photographs most of which can be viewed on computer if not on display. Separately housed is the 19th century village fire engine.

EAST AND WEST HENDRED

EAST AND WEST HANNEY

East Hanney and West Hanney are often referred to as “The Hanneys” locally. Both are very charming villages and worth a visit. St James the Great church in West Hanney, dates back to approximately 1160.

GROVE

This thriving village (the largest village in Oxfordshire) is just north of Wantage. Grove was host to one of the busiest supply airfields in Europe during the second world war. Today it proudly has the status of a Fairtrade Village.

LETCOMBE BASSETT

A classic spring line village with its former cress beds and chalk stream. In recent years horses trained in the village have three times won the Grand National. Asabell’s cottage featured in Thomas Hardy’s Jude the Obscure.